But battling Norton were stubborn and survived with 215-5 (Alex Graham 91, Chris Hampshire 3-41). Now just six points cover the top four. Weston visit doomed Rode Park on Saturday.

Also in Division Two, Sean Price’s brilliant century secured ALSAGER a win which should keep them up.

Visitors Endon posted a daunting 258-3dec (George Sellers 109no, Jordan Weaver hit 87). The hosts’ reply started disastrously as they were reduced to 3-2. But with the pressure on, Price came to the fore and, with the support of Chris Welch (41) and Gareth Rowe (49), he lashed 18 fours and a brace of sixes in a breath-taking innings.

But when the big hitters were all out Alsager still needed two runs to win. Chairman Alan Stancliffe took them to 261-7. They are now 20 points clear of the drop zone.